3 Lessons From Running an Open Source Company

by Ben Pearson

May 13th, 2015

LucidWorks is a company the uses open source tools to help improve information accessibility through search, machine learning, and natural language processing. Their heavy reliance on open source software requires them to take a different approach to business than companies that rely on proprietary software. The founder has taken away three key lessons from running this company.

It’s important to know where to separate open source from the products used to generate income.

Open source offers a good opportunity to transition from a support role to a consultant, and finally to a focus on customer success through software/product development.

Open source companies will have a diverse range of people and teams. Each will have their own requirements for things like working remotely, or using open source or proprietary software. It is important for the company to be responsive to these needs.